Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman.
Good afternoon, Mr. Pennell and Mr. Harvey.
My first question is for Mr. Harvey.
You say that you are not a sea lice specialist. Imagine what the situation is for us, particularly as we must make recommendations on this issue. I am not asking you to stick your neck out, but perhaps to help us out a little more. You have read a lot on this subject. Personally, I have not done so, I am learning as I go, and I understand very well that there is not necessarily any consensus on the issue.
However, according to what you have read, is it possible to determine whether or not sea lice are one of the reasons causing a decline in the salmon populations? Could there be other reasons? Could you tell us about any research you have done on the subject?
This would obviously be with a view to helping us more, because as I will repeat, the situation is much less clear to us than it is to you. Not having any formal training as a biologist, all I can really rely on is my own common sense.
Therefore, could you be of more assistance to us, rather than answering in the way that you have until now? Dr. Harvey?